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PHALANGES OF THE FOOT ANATOMY

Phalanges of the foot 360-degree interactive viewer showing all toe bones with proximal, middle, and distal phalanges and their articulations

Phalanges of the Foot - Overview, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL STRUCTURE

The phalanges of the foot correspond in number and arrangement to those of the hand. The big toe consists of two phalanges—proximal and distal—while the other toes each have three phalanges: proximal, middle, and distal. These bones enable toe movement and contribute to balance and mobility.

General Characteristics

  • 14 phalanges in each foot
  • Big toe (hallux) has 2 phalanges
  • Toes 2-5 each have 3 phalanges
  • Similar structure to phalanges of the hand but shorter and broader
  • Essential for push-off during walking and balance

STRUCTURE OF EACH PHALANX

Individual phalanx 360-degree viewer showing detailed anatomy of base, body, and head with articular surfaces and trochlea

Phalanx - Individual Structure, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.

Each phalanx shares a common structural pattern consisting of a base, body, and head, similar to the metatarsal bones but on a smaller scale.

Base

  • Concave structure
  • Articulates with the head of the corresponding metatarsal bone
  • For middle and distal phalanges, articulates with the head of the preceding phalanx

Body

  • Compressed from side to side
  • Convex on the dorsal surface
  • Concave on the plantar surface
  • Tapers from base to head
  • Located at the distal end
  • Presents a trochlear surface for articulation with the adjacent phalanx
  • Pulley-shaped to allow flexion and extension movements

TROCHLEA

The trochlea is a critical articular feature of each phalanx that enables smooth joint movement.

Characteristics

  • Part of the head of each phalanx
  • Provides a smooth articular surface for movement between adjacent phalanges
  • Pulley-shaped (grooved) configuration
  • Allows hinge-type movements:
    • Flexion (curling toes)
    • Extension (straightening toes)

PROXIMAL PHALANGES

The proximal phalanges form the first row of toe bones and are the largest of the three types.

Characteristics

  • First row of phalanges
  • Articulate with the metatarsal bones at their bases
  • Longest of the three phalangeal types
  • Five proximal phalanges in each foot
  • Proximal phalanx of big toe is notably larger and thicker

MIDDLE PHALANGES

The middle phalanges are the second row of toe bones and are absent in the big toe.

Characteristics

  • Second row of phalanges
  • Present in all toes except the big toe
  • Four middle phalanges in each foot
  • Shorter than proximal phalanges
  • Articulate proximally with proximal phalanges and distally with distal phalanges
  • Fifth toe middle phalanx is often rudimentary or may fuse with distal phalanx

DISTAL PHALANGES

The distal phalanges form the tips of the toes and have unique features for supporting the nail bed.

Characteristics

  • Form the tips of the toes
  • Head features a trochlear surface for articulation with the middle phalanges
  • Distal phalanx of big toe articulates directly with proximal phalanx

Tuberosity

  • Base includes a tuberosity
  • Attachment site for the tendons of toe muscles:
    • Flexor digitorum longus
    • Flexor hallucis longus (big toe)
  • Expanded distal end supports the nail bed
  • Five distal phalanges in each foot

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.

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